The world's best ski runs: in pictures

Combe de la SaulireCourchevel, France
The summit of La Saulire at 2738m separates the ski areas of Méribel and
Courchevel in the Trois Vallées. The classic Combe (pictured above) is the
long run to the bottom station of the Saulire cable car. Its only difficulty
lies in the steep start. However, this, like the rest of the run, is open
and wide. You can either plunge straight into the bowl or take a slightly
gentler path on the right-hand side. Once you’ve negotiated this first
pitch, the whole slope is a much more gentle cruise with spectacular views.

Up to your left as you head down you can see people descending the infamous
couloirs – Sous Pylons, Emile Allais and the Grand Couloir – also reached by
the giant red cable car. The only hazard is other people. As a main
thoroughfare, it can become unpleasantly crowded, particularly over new year
and February half term. If you’re staying in Courchevel, it’s best tackled
first thing in the morning, before the hordes arrive from Méribel.